How do we measure success?

Supporting Students to Become Their Glorious Selves

Many parents, schools, and educators have a version of what “success” looks like. And for many, it follows a predetermined path: you get straight A’s by doing what’s expected of you, you gain admission to specific universities, and then you begin working at particular companies. This is success.

But at Brightworks, we believe there’s a more expansive, inclusive, and joyful definition.

Here, parents and educators measure success based on a student’s ability to collaborate, to know themselves, and to navigate an unpredictable world with empathy, curiosity, and courage. We believe success means being able to ask meaningful questions, work through complexity, and explore interests with purpose—not just check off boxes on someone else’s timeline.

We want kids to grow into adults who know how to make decisions aligned with their values. Who can lead with clarity and communicate their ideas. Who can fail, try again, and know how to ask for help. Who are connected to their communities and contribute to a more just and equitable world.

That starts now, in school.

Brightworks is designed to support children in becoming their glorious selves. We do this by:

• Honoring curiosity and helping students follow their interests through deep, interdisciplinary projects.

• Creating space for voice and choice, so kids learn how to advocate for themselves, share ideas, and collaborate with others.

• Fostering meaningful relationships through small, mixed-age groups and thoughtful mentorship.

• Integrating play, creativity, and time outdoors, so students develop not only cognitively, but socially and emotionally too.

• Sparking real-world connection, where students apply their learning in ways that feel relevant, engaging, and important.

We’ve seen the results. Students who enter with uncertainty blossom into confident learners who understand what motivates them. They leave Brightworks with portfolios full of work that reflects their growth, passion, and thoughtfulness—not just grades and test scores.

Interestingly, with our alternative approach to learning, Brightworks graduates have the dual-benefit of knowing themselves and the academic abilities to thrive in more traditional schools. This year’s 8th graders have gained acceptance to some of San Francisco’s most competitive independent schools, including:

• University High School

• Lick-Wilmerding High School

• Urban High School

• Bay High School

• Ruth Asawa’s School of The Arts

• Drew

• Lowell High School

• and so many more.

If you’re looking for a school that sees your child for who they are—and who they are becoming—we invite you to learn more about Brightworks.

Because success should look like your child, thriving.